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How to Keep your Heart Healthy

A cardiovascular sonographer uses sophisticated imaging technologies to diagnose and help treat disorders of the heart, blood and vessels. Their work is vital because heart disease and stroke remain the primary killers of Americans. Trained to understand what promotes and prevents cardiovascular diseases, these seasoned professionals know how to keep your heart healthy, and started with the same drive to promote fitness as you. It starts with eating right.

Dietary Habits

The old maxim, "we are what we eat," definitely applies to heart disease. Obesity has become a national epidemic, but because it can be controlled, public education on how to prevent it is vital. Whether or not you're obese, however, a healthy diet is critical to preventing cardiovascular diseases and a host of other medical problems, from diabetes to joint disorders. Here are some healthy tips cardiovascular sonographers suggest.

Americans excessively consume carbohydrates and sugar. Before you start your day, eat a good breakfast that includes plenty of protein instead. During the day, limit what you drink to water, and plenty of it. Alcohol, caffeinated beverages and sugary drinks are unhealthy. So-called energy drinks also contain high doses of stimulants, such as caffeine. If you live a healthy life, you should have all the energy you need.

Now, you've been told to eat "three meals a day." Instead, eat smaller meals more frequently. Meals that are low in fat and contain a blend of protein, whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits are ideal. Limit your intake of these foods and drinks to at least four hours prior to bedtime, allowing you to sleep with fewer substances inhibiting the body's ability to shut down.

Keep in mind that many of these small meals contain salt, which contributes to high blood pressure. One of the best ways to reduce your sodium intake is to cut out as many processed foods as possible. Replacing the salt shaker with your favorite herbal blend will also help.

Finally, avoid fad diets to lose poundage, which should be done under the supervision of a physician or dietitian.

Exercise

The human body is designed to move, and a sedentary lifestyle invites a plethora of health problems, especially to the cardiovascular system. The heart becomes flabby and weak, vessels are more apt to clog and the lower extremities receive less blood flow. Muscles weaken and movement becomes all the more difficult, becoming a vicious cycle.

Fortunately, you don't have to join a gym to benefit from exercise. Simply walking on a regular basis is a great start. Whatever your current physical condition may be, the Web is filled with cardio workouts to fit your lifestyle, so go online. Slowly work your way up to at least 30 minutes of exercise three to five times weekly.

If you have any serious medical issues, consult with your doctor before beginning any physical regimen.

Control Risk Factors

Beyond a poor diet and a lazy lifestyle, smoking and genetic predispositions are among the most significant risks factors of cardiovascular disease. Altering your genetic inheritances is impossible, but smoking is something you have the power to quit. Having a primary care physician is essential to properly assess your risks and recommend diets and exercises. She can also help you understand how to keep your heart healthy and medicate problems such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. For more complicated issues, you may be referred to a specialist.

Cardiovascular diseases can be prevented. Get healthy and active with simple food replacements and regular exercise that fits in with your schedule.

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